THE REAL KEY TO IMPROVING BRAIN FUNCTION

Have you been working hard on crosswords and other brain-bending puzzles or listening to lots of classical music as a way to improve your brain? Neuroscientists at the University of California say simply, “Stop it right now.” Their research shows that, while puzzles and classical music may improve a person’s concentration briefly, they play no role in long-term brain functionality.

So then what should you be doing to boost your brain? Exercise, and get a little sun. The study notes that rats who were exposed to different environments produced different brain-altering chemicals. Those that exercised less and were not exposed to sunlight showed no improvement in brain function, even when exposed to classical music, while those who got outside and exercised experienced noted brain function improvement.

Need more of a push to get out and get moving? Take a look at this humorous article about boosting brain power from the Huffington Post.

GREAT ADVICE FOR EVERY FAMILY CAREGIVER

Caring for a loved one as he or she ages can be a very rewarding experience, but it isn’t without challenges. Millions of Americans have taken on the role of caregiver for an elderly parent in recent years, and while your relationship with your parent may have always been great, constant caregiving and feeling like there’s a role reversal between child and parent can be extremely stressful. It is important for all caregivers to learn how to manage their emotions for their health and the health of their loved ones.

In the article Taking Care of an Elderly Parent―and Not Loving It? How to Turn Resentment Into Patience and Joy, psychologist Dr. Suzanne Gelb encourages caregivers to do three key things in order to manage stress and find peace in their caregiver role:

1. Release your feelings in a positive way, even if you just need to scream into a pillow.
2. Find and talk to someone else who understands your experience. Seek out caregiver support groups in your area or online.
3. Recognize that there are things you cannot control and let those things go.

Read more of Dr. Gelb’s advice for caregivers in this article from the Huffington Post.

Responsive Home Care can help you with caregiving for your senior loved one. Contact us to learn more about our trusted senior care services in Pembroke Pines and surrounding areas.

SURPRISING WAYS PETS HELP SENIOR HEALTH

Everyone knows a pet can help ease loneliness for an older adult, especially if he or she is living alone or has recently suffered the loss of a loved one. But did you know that a study by the American Geriatrics Society has shown pets can help lower senior’s blood pressure and score higher in their ability to carry out normal activities of daily living, as well as provide other benefits to senior health?

Responsive Home Care, expert providers of in home senior care in Fort Lauderdale and nearby areas, knows how important our clients’ pets are to maintaining their health and well-being. Our agency provides Pet Care exclusively for our clients when they need that extra assistance. The unconditional love of a clients’ pet can help them achieve a healthy and a happy heart!

Read more about how pets improve quality of life for senior citizens.

Many shelters offer discounts for seniors who want to adopt a senior pet. Be sure to ask at your local shelter.

For more information about how our top-rated in-home senior care in Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding area, can improve senior health for someone you love, contact us today!